"A young man was murdered last week and we extend our sympathies to the family and friends who mourn his loss. Words cannot express the disappointment we feel knowing that one of our players was arrested as a result of this investigation. We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do."

"The involvement of an NFL player in a case of this nature is deeply troubling. The Patriots have released Aaron Hernandez, who will have his day in court. At the same time, we should not forget the young man who was the victim in this case and take this opportunity to extend our deepest sympathy to Odin Lloyd's family and friends."

Hernandez was a fourth-round pick in 2010 who blossomed into a dynamic receiver, working opposite Rob Gronkowski in the team's innovative passing offense. But off the field, with an NFL personal conduct policy suspension looming for Hernandez, the Patriots were likely to be without Hernandez for a long time.

New England chose to cut ties with him altogether before the league and commissioner Roger Goodell could take action. Given the Patriots recent problems with players having character issues and their reluctance to pay players deemed shaky investments, the decision did not come as a surprise.